Homeschooling Style: What is Yours?

God has made you and your family unique, as is homeschooling.

Therefore it is important that you are comfortable with your homeschooling approach, because homeschooling is not a one size fits all deal. Discovering your homeschooling style will give you a place to begin. Do not let it define you and keep you in one style, just let it help you find your starting point. Knowing this (your style) will also help you immediately eliminate certain methods as an approach you would never take. Many parents opt for an eclectic approach using a variety of styles, but you need to know if this fits you. Do not compare yourself to other homeschoolers, and do not work against your personality and yourself. Do what works best for you.

There are many approaches and I will highlight some of them. The first is the traditional/textbook approach, which is best described as “school at home”. It is characterized by textbooks, workbooks, individual desks, and a strict schedule. It is often described as a methodical approach coupled with routines. It tends to be task and fact orientated. It suites children that like to read and tend to be a more visual learner. If you are looking for guidance, step by step instructions, a guide to what your child should know at each stage and lack time to spend with your child then this could be your style.

Another approach is called Unit Study. This is an integrated approach to study a particular topic, theme, or character trait. You pick a topic and it can be studied over a long period of time. The topic will incorporate language arts, math, science, history, art, crafts, drama, physical education, nature and whatever topics can be applied. This is a very hands on, fun approach which absorbs much of the child’s interest and experience and really makes learning a part of their life. Information learned this way tends to be retained better than information just read from a book. This is a great approach for families with a variety of ages to school. Unit study does tend to require more time to prepare, however, you don’t necessarily have to use it as the only form of education for your child. It could be a part of your approach.